Melissa Brown
Compliance Officer / VP
First Peoples Bank, Pineland, GA
Member, GBA Compliance Committee
Published July 10, 2025
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: My mother and grandfather both had careers in finance, and I always felt drawn to follow in their footsteps. While I was in college studying finance, a part-time teller position at LaGrange Banking Company fell into my lap. From there, I worked in several different roles, learning and growing along the way. When the opportunity to move into Compliance came along, I saw it as a chance to take my career to the next level, and that’s when I truly found my “place” in banking.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received in your career?
A: One of my former managers taught me that respect isn’t something that comes with a title—you have to earn it. That advice has stuck with me, especially in my role as a Compliance Officer/BSA Officer. I also learned the importance of resolving issues without making others feel like they’re being told what to do. In Compliance, it’s not always about saying “no,” but rather working together to find a solution that meets regulatory requirements and benefits our customers and the bank.
Q: Tell us about one experience you’ve had that exemplifies being a banker or your role at the bank.
A: When I stepped into the role of BSA Officer, I quickly developed a strong passion for fraud prevention and helping customers who have been victimized. There are countless stories I could share, but nothing beats the feeling of telling a customer we were able to recover their funds, or better yet, that we prevented the fraud before it ever reached their account. Those moments remind me exactly why I do what I do.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: Outside of my Compliance world, I have a very creative side! I enjoy doing calligraphy and painting wall murals, and during the holiday season, I decorate Christmas trees for homes and businesses in the community—usually around 60 trees a year!
Q: First tap/click of the day?
A: Verafin, always.
Q: Podcast you recommend?
A: I’m a true crime junkie, but Lex Fridman Podcast Episode #409 featuring Matthew Cox is especially fascinating, and it ties right into banking and fraud.
Q: TV show or series you love?
A: Big Brother. It’s the one show I look forward to every single year.